Merge and Purge

There's no sense in finding a place for items that should be thrown away. Be conscientious while going through cosmetics and other toiletries, as some cosmetics brands offer recycling incentive programs. M-A-C Cosmetics' Back to M-A-C Program, gives you a free lipstick for every six containers you return for recycling. However, be sure to trash any expired medications and sunscreen, since out-of-date products may not work properly and take up valuable storage space.

Everything Has its Place

Keeping frequently used items on the vanity counter may be convenient, but it's also cramping your neatness factor. A space will always look larger when the clutter is removed. To get the items off shared surfaces and carry off a pulled-together look in the bath, install accessories that coordinate with bathroom faucets and fixtures. The Sage collection from Moen Inspirations features a simple, transitional design available in both chrome and brushed nickel finishes for a beautifully coordinated look. The collection, available at Lowe's, Menards and Bed Bath & Beyond, includes a robe hook, mirror, glass shelf, tank lever, towel ring, towel bars and paper holders to add instant organization to your bath … with an added decorative touch.

Quick Touch-Ups

Dirty walls and chipped paint can make your bathroom look messy. Don't underestimate the power of a good coat of paint. A gallon of quality paint costs approximately $20 and is a great way to freshen up the walls, add some color or pull a room together. And most paint manufacturers now offer non-toxic paints with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to reduce gaseous pollutants in your home.

Keep it Clean

Once you've organized, give your bathroom a good scrubbing with non-toxic organic soaps and cleaners to help rid all surfaces of dirt, mildew and hard-water stains. Sites such as www.greenhome.com list the latest lines of environmentally friendly cleaning products, so it's a win-win situation for both your family and the environment. Also, keeping your cleaning supplies in the bath will serve as a constant reminder to keep tidy.

Picture Perfect

Finishing touches can make all the difference in your newly organized bath. Try hanging new artwork, frame your favorite vacation photos or create a custom look -- and a focal point in the bath -- with a framed mirror. Products such as Mirrorscapes Mirror Frames  from Moen five easy-to-install styles of customizable frames ranging from classic elegance to modern sophistication and come in a wide variety of metallic and wood finishes. The innovative system is easy enough for even a do-it-yourselfer to install in minutes and can turn most any wall-mounted, plate-glass mirror into a beautifully coordinated, custom-designed look.

Once everything in your bathroom is clean and neatly stored and the finishing touches are complete, maintain your cleanliness with periodic pitching sessions. Regularly sort one section of the bath at a time, restoring misplaced items to their rightful homes and recycling, giving away or tossing things you haven't used in a year. By following a few of these tips, you'll be sure to kiss your messy bath goodbye -- for good.

For more information on the Sage collection or Mirrorscapes Mirror Frames, visit csi.moen.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent